babylon pope

Anything is possible. The reality, though, is that the RCC is an institution in terminal decline and decay in Europe and the US. In most places in Europe, it's simply a museum - and in the US, it's mostly a bankrupt social service organization.

If the goal is to gut it completely, then another European or a long shot North American would be the logical choice to bury it. While the main family lines that are the foundation of the RCC are in Europe - Italy specifically - choosing someone 'close to home' will not preserve them through the growing storm that is sweeping the planet. In fact choosing a familiar will only isolate them more - making them easy prey for their enemies and competitors.

If the goal is to try to reinvigorate it, though, then this must be done with and through populations that are growing and who make up the bulk of practicing Roman Catholics morally and spiritually - and who are also subservient to the hierarchy. An African would be the best choice for this.

The African contenders - Turkson and more unlikely Arinze - are unabashed in their traditional morality and have a strong public presence that has been lacking since JPII.

With Islam growing - and given the fact that real, practicing Muslims are not going to be bought off or brought into a 'one world religion' led by the RCC - the RCC leaders have to meet this challenge of reality or face the growing prospect of seeing its cardinals and bishops in the heart of Europe given the same treatment as their middle eastern counterparts. It's going to be interesting to see what direction they take. The clock is ticking...